A paperboy plunged to his death from a motorway bridge while on his round.

Tributes have poured in to 14-year-old Ben Fitchett – a talented musician with a ‘fantastic sense of humour’.

The popular schoolboy fell from a bridge over the eastbound M62 near Rochdale not far from his home just before 7.30am on Monday. It is believed he had just started his morning paper round.

The death of the teenage scout, who had recently taken part in a Duke of Edinburgh award, has left his close family distraught. Police say there are believed to be no suspicious circumstances.

Parents Peter and Sarah, and twin brother Sam, said they are ‘shocked and devastated’ at his ‘sudden and unexpected’ death.”

In a statement, the family, from Balderstone, Rochdale, said: “Ben is the immensely loved son of Sarah and Peter, twin brother to Sam, grandson, nephew, cousin, friend to many, and the much loved boyfriend of Clarissa. He will be fondly remembered for his fantastic sense of humour and his ability to make everyone smile. He touched the lives of so many people, leaving a positive lasting impression on those around him.

“His family and friends and the local community have been overwhelmed and comforted by the love, prayers and support from everybody.”

Dozens of flowers and tributes have been left at the scene of the incident on the Broad Lane Bridge.

Tributes left to Ben Fitchett

Mrs Fitchett posted on Facebook: “Too many people to name individually but thank you all for your kind words of support for us all, your cards and flowers. It means so much.”

Ben was a pupil at Crompton House School in Oldham and was due to start Year 10 in September. He was also a member of the Royton Explorer Scouts and played alongside his dad as a percussionist in the Blackburn and Darwen Brass Band.

His family added: “He was a dedicated and hard-working pupil who excelled at history, drama and art, and also recently did his Bronze Duke of Edinburgh award. Ben was an active member of the Scouts and had only just returned from an enjoyable and amazing holiday experience in Switzerland.

“He also volunteered helping the Beaver Scouts at 12th Shaw.

He was a talented percussionist who enjoyed the experience of playing alongside his proud father with the Championship Section Blackburn and Darwen Brass Band, and previously with the Oldham Music Centre. Ben was very much into his music and particularly enjoyed listening to the group All Time Low.”

Sarah Calvert, headteacher at Crompton House, said: “We are all deeply shocked and saddened to hear the tragic news of the sudden death of Ben. He was a popular Year Nine pupil at our school who was well liked by pupils and staff alike.

“He was a bright student who particularly enjoyed art. He was a keen musician and worked hard at school. Ben enjoyed his sport and took an active part in the recent school Olympics.

“He will be hugely missed and we send our heartfelt thoughts and prayers to all his family and friends at this terribly sad time.

“The whole school community is very distressed by this news and still coming to terms with it. Our immediate concern is to do all that we can enable our children and staff cope with their shock and grief.”

Sgt Danny Byrne said police are keen to establish the circumstance leading to Ben’s death.

He said: “If you saw a young man on Broad Lane, the bridge across the M62 close to junction 20, around 7am on Monday morning we’d be interested to hear from you.”